Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device

ABSTRACT

A selectively lockable fastener is provided that includes a beveled button for removable interconnection to a locking portion based on a rotational movement. The button of one embodiment of the present invention also includes a locking relief, generally a second bevel, for engagement with a cavity of the locking portion. This secondary locking feature reduces the occurrences of unintentional disengagement of the fastener that often occurs as a result of normal wear and tear.

The application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/745,907, filed Dec. 23, 2003, which is aContinuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/441,928,filed May 19, 2003, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. Designpatent application Ser. No. 29/163,110, filed Jun. 26, 2002, now U.S.Pat. No. D478,418, each application being incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to multi-piece fasteners, clips andbuckles, and more specifically a device adapted to selectively retain anelectric device or other apparatus, and which can be released by arotational movement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cellular telephones, pagers, radios, personal digital assistants (PDAs),and other similar electronic devices (hereinafter “electronic device”)have become increasingly popular, with many people securing thesedevices on their belts or pockets. The inevitable advances in technologywill surely bring about new items that users will desire to carry inthis fashion SO that they are easily accessible.

Various means of clipping small items to a user's belt have been in usefor many years. More specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 5,779,115, assigned toNOKIA®, teaches a carrying device that employs a hand-operated slidethat includes an element to deflect a spring to release a lock. Thedevice employs a button, and a cylindrical stem interconnected to acircular plate that is sewn on a case adapted to receive a cellularphone. The body portion of the holding device is attached to a user'sbelt and employs a locking feature. The user inserts the button into thelock which thus secures the electronic device on the belt. To disengagethe electronic device from the carrying device, the user must releasethe locking mechanism by deflecting a release mechanism. This type oflock has the disadvantage of being assembled from many parts thus timeconsuming and expensive to manufacture. Further, the release mechanicsof traditional locks maybe inadvertently activated causing the item tobecome dislodged and possibly damaged in a fall. Failure, due to normalwear and tear, of the locking spring and the clip housing are alsocommon, which will cause the electronic device to become dislodged fromthe locking mechanism and possibly damaged. Finally, it is cumbersomeand awkward in certain situations to disengage the lock with a thumb orfinger, and it is often difficult for the elderly or physicallychallenged to perform the unlocking operation.

Separable fasteners with a single piece locking feature are known in theart. For example, the MOD-U-LOCK® attachment system, built by theNational Molding Corporation and sold commercially by DURAFLEX®, is aseparable fastener that utilizes the elastic properties of plastic tolock the button into place. The locking portion includes a flexible tabwith a locking lip and a pocket to receive the button, which may bereleased by applying finger pressure against an upper portion of thetab. However, the locking portion of this type of separable fasteners isusually rigidly interconnected onto existing materials, and thusprovides no means for removable interconnection to a belt, pocket, orother object.

Another drawback of the separable fasteners is that they have limitedapplications outside use with soft compliant items. More specifically,user-applied deflects the tab to provide a sufficient gap so that thebutton, which is interconnected to the device, may be easily slippedinto and out of the locking mechanism without interference with alocking lip on the tab. In current low-profile lock designs, a deflectedtab will come in contact with the item the lock is attached to. If thelock is attached to a compliant item, a nylon bag for example, pressurefrom the tab will deflect the compliant item and a sufficient gap willbe provided for button disengagement. If the item that the lockingportion of the separable fastener is interconnected to is not compliant,the deflected tab may not provide a sufficient gap for the insertion orremoval of the button. Fasteners in use today are low profile, and assuch lack a sufficient gap when deflected to be used on non-compliantmaterials.

There is thus a significant need for a one-piece integrally moldedinterconnection system that may be selectively attached to a belt orpocket, and which comprises a locking mechanism that selectively securesan electronic device, and wherein selective rotation of the electronicdevice facilitates disengagement thereof. There is a further need for asimplistic interconnection system which requires no assembly, isdurable, and can be used in a multitude of applications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is thus one aspect of the present invention to provide a detachablefastener that selectively interconnects to a user's belt and selectivelysecures an electronic device, while eliminating post-manufacturing stepsof assembly and the costs associated therewith. Thus, the detachablefastener of one embodiment of the present invention does not employsprings or other means to disengage the lock.

It is another aspect of the present invention that the single piecedesign be light, strong, and less susceptible to breakage and jammingdue to the reduction of movable parts. Also, the single piece designwill have no metal parts that are generally prone to corrosion and tendto activate metal detectors. Due to the single piece design and theelimination of post manufacturing steps, significant time and expense issaved.

It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a fastenerthat has a robust design, and which can readably changed with a revisionof a mold. Thus, the shape and design of the fastener may be changedeasily, as well as the color. In addition, the fastener may be moldedwith substantially planar areas for the attachment of company logos orother advertisements, or the desired indicia may be etched or moldeddirectly onto the clip.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a separablefastener that includes a button that selectively interconnects with alocking portion of the separable fastener by sliding into a lockingpocket thereof. The button may be interconnected to any number ofelectronic devices, tools, or carrying pouches, sleeves, or holsters,such as a cell phone, a pager, a PDA, an MP3 player, a CD player, adiagnostic device, a radio, tape cassette player, a health monitor, ahammer, a tape measure, an inventory device, a water bottle, aflashlight, a sleeve or holster adapted to secure a cell phone, a gunholster, a pouch, a hand cuff holder, a knife case, and a time piece(hereafter “electronic device”). Alternatively, the button may beinterconnected to a belt, strap, leash, or any other object that isdesigned to selectively interconnect to a mating fastener. Generally,the attachment of the button to the electronic device or other itemdepends on the application, but the button may be sewn, glued,integrally molded, screwed, riveted, clipped, taped, or tied to theitem, as appreciated by one skilled in the art. Finally, items of thesame general size may fit into the same lock depending on the shape ofthe interface portion of the lock and the button.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a belt clipthat is integrally interconnected to the locking portion of theseparable fastener by a thinner, resiliently deflectable, section ofmaterial. By squeezing together finger and thumb tabs on the clip andlock, the thinner section will resiliently deflect, thereby allowingselective interconnection to a user's belt. The lock portion willgenerally use the same materials, such that the tab attached to thelocking portion may be easily deflected to allow insertion and removalof the button that is interconnected to the electronic device.

It is a related aspect of the present invention to provide a lockingportion of the integrai assembly that is attached to the belt clip via aspring and pin combination, and thus does not utilize the one-pieceintegral design discussed above, but is still simplistic to manufacture,and thus cost effective.

It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide aholder used to carry larger items that, due to their shape and/or size,a user would find difficult to disengage the lock of the fastener. Inthis embodiment, the locking portion employs the locking pocket, but nomovable tab. In contrast, the locking portion is equipped with a smallprotrusion that in turn interfaces with a tab on the button.Disengagement is achieved by flexing the tab, thereby releasing theinterface. In addition, the interconnection between the clip and thelocking portion may not include a reduced thickness, but rather employthe same dimensions as the joined components to increase the strength ofthe holder to accommodate heavier items.

In each of the above mentioned aspects of the invention, a button thatis selectively interconnected to the electronic device or other items isemployed. The interface portion of the button will dictate the mobilityof the item when it is installed in the locking pocket. For example, around interface will allow the device to rotate, whereas a squareinterface will constrain the device to prevent rotation, and aninterface that is notched will allow the user to maintain a desiredrotation angle in a preferred position of use.

It is another aspect of the present invention that there be a sufficientgap incorporated into the locking portion of the integral assembly suchthat sufficient space is provided for the tab to be deflected.

It is still yet another aspect of the invention to provide a button thatis selectively removable from the locking portion when it is rotated toa predetermined angle, thus removable without manually deflecting thetab. In one embodiment of the present invention the button employs anangled bevel on the interface portion that provides sufficient clearancefrom the locking portion of the clip or facilitates hands-freedeflection of the tab when the button is rotated a predetermined angle.During insertion, the beveled area of the button travels in anunobstructed path, or in a path that facilitates deflection of the tab,into the locking portion of the clip. Further, once the button is seatedsecurely in the pocket, a non-beveled area of the button will be incontact with the locking portion, thereby preventing removal. Removal ofthe electronic device is achieved by rotation, in one embodiment about180 degrees, such that the beveled area is again proximate to thelocking portion, thereby providing an unobstructed or tab deflectingpath for button removal. One skilled in the art will appreciate that anyrotation angle, or plurality thereof, may be used to facilitate buttonremoval.

The locking portions of the present invention that are resilientlydeflectable, may be used. Alternatively, a locking portion with nomoving parts may be employed. More specifically, a beveled button may beemployed that alleviates the need for a resiliently deflectable tab byproviding an unobstructed path for selective interconnection. Further,the removal of the resiliently deflectable tab will allow the lockingportion to be constructed with a lower profile, because the traveldistance of the tab will no longer be required.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a fasteningmechanism that is not used exclusively with electronic devices. Morespecifically, one embodiment of the present invention may be used withother items, such as belts, straps, leashes, or any other similar typeof device. For example, the button may interconnect to an intermediateappendage that includes at least one aperture for the interconnection tothe strap or belt. It is envisioned that this embodiment be used forstraps or belts for elderly or disabled individuals such that theinterconnection and disconnection of the separable fastener isfacilitated.

It is related aspect of the present invention to provide a button thatincludes a second bevel or relief to ensure that the button does notdisengage from the lock. More specifically, as previously describedabove, the non-beveled portion is designed to selectively engage thelocking lip on the resiliently deflectable tab of the locking portion ofthe clip. However, over time this engagement may become worn such thatthe button may become disengaged from the locking portion uponsufficient pressure thereto. Accordingly, one embodiment of the presentinvention includes a locking tab that includes a locking cavityintegrated therein. A button with a locking relief is also provided suchthat the locking relief and the locking cavity engage when the button isin a locked position such that disengagement from the locking portion ofthe severable fastener is subsequently prevented. Additional advantagesof the present invention will become readily apparent from the followingdiscussion, particularly when incorporated with the accompanyingdrawings.

Thus, in one aspect of the present invention a fastening system adaptedfor selectively securing an electronic device is provided comprising:

a locking portion comprising an upper end, a lower end and lateral edgesextending therebetween;

a receiving pocket positioned within said locking portion and comprisingat least one outwardly extending lip on a first end with a restricteddiameter upper surface;

a button having a lower surface and an upper surface to define a firstthickness, said button further including:

a beveled edge extending generally between said lower surface and saidupper surface of said button, wherein said first thickness is reducedand

a locking relief extending generally between said lower surface and saidupper surface of said button, generally opposite said beveled edge,wherein said first thickness is reduced; and

wherein said receiving pocket is sized to receive and secure said buttonin a first position, but said button cannot be withdrawn from saidreceiving pocket until said beveled edge is positioned substantiallyadjacent to said outwardly extending lip.

The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it beconstrued as being representative of the full extent and scope of thepresent invention. The present invention is set forth in various levelsof detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attacheddrawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitationas to the scope of the present invention is intended by either theinclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summaryof the Invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention andtogether with the general description of the invention given above andthe detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explainthe principles of these embodiments.

FIG. 1 is perspective view of a first embodiment of an integral beltclip and locking fastener;

FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 are front elevation and plan views of a square engagement buttonused with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 are front elevation and plan views of a round engagement buttonused with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 are front elevation and plan views of a notched engagement buttonused with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a left elevation view of the button attached to an electronicdevice and a method of insertion into the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1interconnected to a belt and the electronic device selectively securedthereto;

FIG. 10 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 11 is a rear elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a left elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 is a bottom plan view of the invention shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 15 is a left elevation view of an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 16 is a rear elevation view of an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 17 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a front elevation view of a button with an extended tab;

FIG. 20 is a right elevation view of the button with extended tab shownin FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a left elevation view of the button with an extended tabattached to an item and the method of insertion into the embodimentshown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 22 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 16interconnected to a user's belt and an electronic device selectivelysecured thereto;

FIG. 23 is a rear elevation view of an alternative embodiment;

FIG. 24 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 23;

FIG. 26 is a front elevation view of a resilient engagement button;

FIG. 27 is a right section view of a resilient engagement button;

FIG. 28 is a top plan view of a resilient engagement button;

FIG. 29 is a rear elevation view that shows an example of a hard stop;and

FIG. 30 are front elevation and plan views of a beveled button used withan alternate embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 31 is a partial right cross section of the locking portion of thebelt clip shown in FIG. 25 selectively interconnected to the beveledbutton shown in FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a partial right cross section of the locking portion of thebelt clip shown in FIG. 25 selectively interconnected to the beveledbutton shown in FIG. 30, rotated to facilitate removal thereof;

FIG. 33 is a front elevation view of a locking portion of an alternateembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 34 is a left elevation view of the locking portion shown in FIG.33;

FIG. 35 is a front elevation view of a button of an alternate embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 36 is a left elevation view of the button shown in FIG. 35; and

FIG. 37 is a partial sectional view of the embodiments of the lockingportion shown in FIG. 33 and the button shown in FIG. 35 illustratingthe locking mechanism.

To provide clarity to the various components found in the drawings, andthe numbering of the various components provided herein: # Component

1 Hard Stop

2 Extended Tab

3 Locking Protrusion

4 Extended tab/Protrusion interface location

5 User

7 Pin

10 Belt clip portion

11 Hook

12 Belt Clip Finger Grip

12A Belt Clip Finger Grip

12B Belt Clip Finger Grip

13 Locking Portion Finger Grip

14 Open molding area

15 Tab

16 Locking Lip

17 Front wall of locking pocket

17A Front wall of locking pocket (Looking from the belt clip)

18 Back wail of locking pocket

18A Back wall of locking pocket (Looking from the belt clip)

19 Locking Pocket

21 Open molding space

22 Side pocket walls

30 Lock portion

31 Web

32 Belt clip/Lock portion interface

36 Sleeve

41 Button attachment surface

42 Button

43 Button notches

44 Stitch holes

45 Rivet hole

46 Stem

50 Electronic Device or other item

60 Integral Belt Clip and Holder

70 Gap

71 Back surface of locking portion

73 Button bevel area

80 Locking relief

82 Locking cavity

86 Aperture

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale.In certain instances, details which are not necessary for anunderstanding of the invention or which render other details difficultto perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course,that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particularembodiments illustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to FIGS. 1-37, a separable fastener that includes at leasta locking portion and a button is shown. One embodiment of the presentinvention includes a locking portion with a resiliently deflectable tabthat employs a locking protrusion that is adapted to selectively engagethe button. Engagement and disengagement of the button is achieved byselectively deflecting the tab to provide a obstruction-free path forthe button to travel. Alternatively, in another embodiment of theinvention, a button is provided that employs a beveled area that isadapted to provide an obstruction free path, or alternatively a buttonthat provides the tab deflection force, for removal when the beveledarea is rotated to a predetermined angle.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, one embodiment of the present invention isshown herein. In general, a one-piece integral belt clip holder 60 is aunion of a belt clip 10 and a locking portion 30 of a separable fastenerwhich are attached by a web 31 of plastic or other material withresilient properties, made from a material such as rubber, deflectableplastic, etc. The web 31 is resilient to allow for attachment to a beltwhen pressure is applied to the finger grip on the clip portion 12 andthe finger grip on the lock portion 13. Alternatively, the lowerportions of the belt clip 10 and the locking portion 30 may be pulledapart to allow for selective interconnection to a belt or other object.The lock portion 30 employs a flexible plastic tab 15 with a lip 16 thatsecures a button and prevents upward movement and disengagement from thelock portion 30. Alternatively, other types of residual materialscommonly known in the art may be used, including rubber, polyethylene,etc. A locking pocket 19 constrains the button portion of the separablefastener, and consists of a front wall 17, a back wall 18, and sidepocket walls 22. When the tab 15 is flexed, the non-locking portionremains supported in the pocket and is easily disengaged. The belt clipportion 10 may be equipped with a hook 11 which will help maintain theunit on the user's belt. Both portions of the belt clip 10 and thelocking portion 30 of the separable fastener are integrally moldedpreferably with open molded spaces 14 and 21 which eliminates assembly,inherent labor costs, and the expenses related thereto.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-7 and FIGS. 26-27, a secondary engaged portionof the separable fastener is shown, and which is designed forinterconnecting to an electric device such as a cellular phone, radio,etc. This item is referred to herein as a button 42, and is generallycomprised of a plastic material such as polypropylene, polyethylene,etc. The button's attachment surface 41 is connected to the button 42 bya stem 46 such that the button 42 is easily slipped into the pocket ofthe lock. In one embodiment, the interconnecting stem 46 and/or theattachment area 41 may be made of rubber or other resilient materialcapable of deflection which will decrease stresses on the button andelectronic device interface when a force is applied to a portion of theelectronic device. The stem 46 is not limited to a cylindrical shape.For example, a rectangularly shaped stem 46 may be used which wouldprovide resiliency in one direction and greater stiffness in the others.Also, at the button-to-electronic device interface, a resilient materialwill provide a better bond between the button attachment surface 41 andthe electronic device because the resilient material will be capable ofdeflection and conformance to the electronic device that may have anon-planar shape. The button 42 dictates the mobility of the item whenit is locked in the pocket. More specifically, a square shape will givea user substantially no rotation, while a round button shape will allowfor substantially free rotation. Alternatively in one embodiment,notches 43 may be employed to provide a variety of fixed positionsdepending on the preferred application.

The button attachment surface 41 is selectively interconnected to theelectronic device, electronic device carrying case, or other item bysewing, gluing, integrally molding, clipping, screwing, riveting,taping, or tying. The button attachment surface 41 may further employ arivet hole 45 or stitching holes 44 to facilitate interconnection withthe electronic device, electronic device carrying case, or other item.One embodiment of the present invention is adapted for interconnectionto a sleeve or holster that secures a cellular phone, wherein the sleeveencompasses all or a portion of the cellular phone body.

Referring now to FIG. 8, the locking function of one embodiment of thepresent invention is illustrated herein. More specifically, the button42 is shown interconnected to the electronic device 50, while theintegral belt clip and holder 60 is shown with a tab 15 in the lockedposition. To lock the electronic device 50 into place, the user appliespressure to the tab 15 in the direction of the clip portion 10 of theintegral assembly 60. Alternatively embodiments may employ releasemechanisms that are pushed in different directions of release. Afterpressure is applied to the tab 15, there is an unobstructed path for thebutton 42 to engage the pocket 19. That is, the button interface 42 iseasily guided downward into the locking pocket 19. When the userreleases the pressure on the tab 15 the locking portion of the tab 16will prevent the button interface 42 from traveling upward. Thus, theelectronic device 50 is released by the application of pressure to thetab 15 towards the clip portion 10 of the integral assembly 60, therebydeflecting the tab, separating the lock 16 and button interface 42, andproviding an unobstructed path in which the electronic device cantravel.

The requisite pressure that deflects the tab 15 prior to theintroduction of the button interface 42 into the pocket 19 can besupplied by the interface 42 itself. More specifically, the user caninitiate the downward motion of the electronic device 50 into the pocket19 without touching the tab 15. Thus, the contact of the interface 42with the tab 15, along with the downward force supplied by the user, maysufficiently deflect the tab 15 so that the interface 42 will engage thelocking pocket 19.

Referring now to FIG. 9, the button 42 is shown interconnected to theelectronic device 50, while the belt clip 10 is attached to the user's 5belt. The tab 15 of the lock 30 has been deflected towards the user 5,while the button interface has been seated in the locking pocket 19, andthe tab 15 has been released. Thus, the button is prevented from upwardmotion by the lock 16, and the electronic device 50 is operablyinterconnected to belt clip and holder 60.

Referring now to FIGS. 10-14, another embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. This embodiment is similar to the first embodimentof the present invention shown in FIGS. 1-9, but the single piecemolding is modified to simplify manufacturing because “side pulls” onthe mold are not required. In some molding processes side pulls arerequired to form holes or cavities into the final product. By deletingthe need for side pulls, an integral design is moldable using atwo-piece mold construction, and more clips can be made using a singlemold. The requirement of side pulls adds complexity and cost to themolding operation. More specifically, the belt clip portion 10 isconstructed slightly longer than the locking portion 30. In addition,the belt clip finger grip is split into two pieces 12A and 12B.

Referring now to FIG. 15, yet another embodiment of the presentinvention is shown that employs a pin 7 and spring mechanism to connectthe locking 30 and clip 10 portions of the unit. More specifically, thepressure on the finger grips 12 and 13 is reduced by the use of a pinand spring such that selective interconnection to a user's belt or otherobject is more easily performed.

Referring now to FIGS. 16-20, an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention is shown that is more durable and which may be used for largeritems such as radios, CD players, PDAs, inventory devices, waterbottles, etc. In this embodiment of the present invention, the lockingfeature 3 on the integral assembly 60 is not attached to a flexible tab.Instead, the locking portion 30 employs a small protrusion 3, whichinterfaces with a flexible tab 2 on the button 42 when the button isseated in the locking pocket 19 and the tab 2 is released. Further, thehalves are connected by a thicker interface 32 that increases thestrength of the unit.

Referring now to FIG. 21, the locking function of one embodiment of thepresent invention is illustrated herein. More specifically, the button42 is shown interconnected to a sleeve 36 on a larger device 50, whilethe integral belt clip and holder 60 is shown with a stationary lockingprotrusion 3. The sleeve 36 may be used to selectively secure the largerdevice 50 to the button 42 if attachment locations on the item 50 arenot feasible. To lock the device into place the user applies pressure tothe tab 2 on the button 42. After pressure is applied to the tab 15there is an unobstructed path for the button 42 to engage the pocket 19,that is, the button 42 may be easily guided downward into the lockpocket 19. When the user releases the pressure on the tab 2, the lockingportion of the integral assembly 3 will prevent the button 42 fromtraveling upward because a portion of the tab 2 will selectivelyinterconnect with the lock 3. The item is released by the application ofpressure to the tab 2 thereby deflecting the tab, separating the lock 3and the tab interface 4, and providing an unobstructed path in which thedevice can be moved upward.

The requisite pressure that deflects the tab 2 prior to the introductionof the button interface 42 into the pocket 19 can be supplied by theinterface 4 itself. More specifically, the user can initiate thedownward motion of the device into the pocket without touching the tab2. The contact of the interface 4 with the lock 3, along with thedownward force supplied by the user, will sufficiently deflect the tab 2so that the button interface 42 will be able to be seated into thepocket 19.

Referring now to FIG. 22, the button 42 is shown interconnected to thelarger device 50, while the belt clip 10 is attached to the user's 5belt. The tab 2 of the button 42 has been flexed towards the device 50,the button interface has been seated in the pocket 19, the tab 2 hasbeen released, and the button has been prevented from upward motion bythe contact of the interface 4 with the lock 3.

Referring now to FIGS. 23-25, another embodiment of the presentinvention is shown that employs a thick connection interface 32, but issubstantially similar to the first two embodiment described with respectto the aspects of the locking feature. In order for any lockingmechanism to work properly in some embodiments of the present invention,a gap 70 must be integrated into the locking portion 30 of the integraldesign to allow unrestricted travel of the locking tab 15. This gap 70will extend from the back surface of the locking portion 71 to the backwall of the locking pocket 18A. When the user deflects the tab 15, thegap 70 will provide sufficient deflection of the tab 15 so that thebutton 42 will not come in contact with the locking lip 16 when a userinserts and removes a device from the integral assembly 60. The greaterthe gap 70, the easier and quicker the button can be inserted andreleased from the pocket and lock.

Referring now to FIG. 29, a “hard stop” is shown. As used herein, a hardstop 1 is any type of backing material, detent, or other mechanism whichprevents the tab 15 from extending or deflecting past a predeterminedposition. The predetermined position may be dictated by the maximumdeflection the tab 15 can move without incurring damage. To engage anddisengage a button from the integral assembly 60, a user must depressthe tab 15 toward the belt clip 10 of the integral assembly. Extremedeflections of the tab 15 may fatigue the material such that it will bepermanently deformed or break. In order to prevent this detrimentaleffect, the hard stop 1 may be added to the belt clip portion 10 of theintegral assembly 60. When a user applies pressure on the tab 15 towardsthe belt clip portion 10, the tab 15 will deflect enough for engagementor disengagement of a button, but the tab 15 will be stopped fromfurther deflection when it comes in contact with the hard stop 1.Preferably, the hard stop 1 is molded integrally with the belt clip 10.

Further, the hard stop 1 may be added to or molded onto the tab 15 ofthe locking portion 30 of the integral assembly 60 as opposed to thebelt clip 10, as discussed above. When a user applies pressure on thetab 15 towards the belt clip portion 10, the tab 15 will deflect enoughfor engagement or disengagement of a button, but the tab 15 will bestopped from further deflection when the hard stop 1 on the tab 15 comesin contact with the belt clip portion 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 30-32, an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention is shown herein. More specifically, a button 42 that employs abeveled area 73 is shown that is adapted to selectively interconnectwith the lock portion 30 of the clip 60. When interconnecting, thebeveled area 73 allows the button 42 to pass unobstructed into thelocking pocket 19. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate thatdeflection of the tab may be facilitated by the angled bevel area 73,wherein hands-free interconnection and disconnection is realized. Onceseated in the locking pocket 19, the button's 42 non-beveled areaselectively interconnects with the locking protrusion 3 of the lockingportion 30, thereby preventing removal. To separate the button 42 fromthe locking portion 30, the user rotates the button 42, such that thebeveled area 73 is proximate to the locking protrusion 3, therebyproviding an unobstructed path for the button 42 to travel. In contrastto the previously-described embodiments, this embodiment requires nomanual deflection of the tab employed on the clip. More specifically,the shape of the bevel 73 allows the button 42 to be inserted into thelock 30 without manually resiliently deflecting the locking tab, andwherein a predetermined rotation allows the button 42 to be removed fromthe lock 32 easily because the button 42 facilitates deflection of thetab. This feature is highly desirable for individuals who havedifficulty using their hands, wherein use of the resiliently deflectabletab may be difficult. Further, individuals, such as the elderly or thedisabled, will be able to easily utilize this embodiment of the presentinvention since the unlocking mechanism simply entails selectiverotation of the electronic device.

Generally, the button 42 is constructed with a predetermined thickness.In order to create the bevel 73, the thickness of the button 42 isselectively trimmed at a predetermined angle relative to the top of thebutton 42. This cut defines a bevel portion 73 on the button 42 whichallows for substantially unobstructed travel of the button 42 in and outof the lock. More specifically, the button 42 is defined after the bevel73 of angle θ is created by an unaffected portion of length d. The angleθ and the length d may be of any dimension depending on the thickness ofthe button 42 and the locking requirements required. Preferably, in oneembodiment of the invention, d is about ⅜ inches. In addition, thebeveled portion 73 may span any distance around a perimeter of thecircular button 42 as long as sufficient non-beveled area remains toensure that locking is possible, wherein more than small rotations ofthe electronic device will facilitate unlocking. For example, in oneembodiment of the invention the bevel spans at least about 50%, or about180°, around the perimeter of the button 42. Further, the bevel 73 maybe made of one smooth swept cut around the perimeter, or may be made ofa series of faceted cuts to allow for various locking and unlockingoptions. In one embodiment of the present invention, the angle θ isabout 30°.

Referring now to FIGS. 33-37, an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention is shown that provides greater locking capabilities. Morespecifically, one embodiment of the present invention, similar to thatdescribed above, includes a locking relief 80 integrated into the button42 and a locking cavity 82 integrated into the tab 15 of the lockportion 30. As described above, the bevel 73 is designed to either passcompletely over the locking lip 16 of the tab 15 or alternatively tofacilitate deflection of the tab 15 by a sliding engagement between thebeveled area 72 and the locking lip 16, thereby allowing the button 42to be seated into the locking pocket 19. In addition, this embodiment ofthe present invention includes the locking cavity 82 that is generallyan annulus removed from the locking lip 16 of the tab. As shown herein,a triangular annulus angle φ is shown that spans the length of thelocking lip 16. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that anyshape and length of the locking cavity 16 maybe employed withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention. In combination with thelocking cavity 82, a locking relief 80 is provided on the underside ofthe button 42 that is opposite from the beveled side, as shown mostdistinctly in FIG. 37. This locking relief, as shown herein, isgenerally a triangular bevel of angle γ is designed to selectivelyengage the locking cavity 82 of the tab 15.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that the length of the lockingrelief 86 may be any practical value as long as it selectively locksinto the locking cavity 82 of the tab 15. More specifically, the lengthof the locking relief 80 of the button 42 maybe such that only onelocking position may be provided, wherein a small locking cavity, orgroove, receives a small locking relief 80, for example. This embodimentof the present invention provides the user with a more enhanced lockingfeature such that normal wear and tear of the surfaces on the lockinglip 16 and the interface surface of the button 42 will not substantiallyaffect the locking of the button in the locking portion 30 of the clip.More specifically, the engagement of the button in the cavitysubstantially prevents the electronic device from being slipped out ofthe locking cavity and/or pulled therefrom.

Referring now specifically to FIGS. 33 and 35, a locking mechanism thatutilizes a locking relief 80 and locking cavity 82 is shown. Aprotuberance of any shape may be employed with a aperture 86 integratedtherethrough to provide locations for the interconnection of belts,straps, strings, ropes, etc. In addition, the locking portion of theclip 30 maybe provided with a section for the placement of an aperture86 for the interconnection of similar devices, such that the separablelocking mechanism may be used in a number of applications. For example,the present invention may be employed as a belt buckle, clasp, or anyother similar type mechanism that is easy to use, which would aidelderly or disabled individuals.

Referring now to FIG. 3-7, a method of engagement of one embodiment ofthe present invention that includes a locking cavity 82 and lockingrelief 80 is described. More specifically, one embodiment of the presentinvention is slid into the locking portion 30 of the clip wherein thebeveled area 73 either passes by the locking lip 16 or facilitatesdeflection of the locking tab 15 by engagement therewith. Once thebutton 42 is seated in the locking pocket 19, the device issubstantially constrained from disengagement. If upward motion, as shownin the figure motion to the left, is attempted, the locking relief 80and the locking cavity 82 will become engaged such that upward motion issubstantially prevented.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been describedin detail, it is apparent that modifications and adaptations of thoseembodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to beexpressly understood that such modifications and adaptations are withinthe spirit and scope of the present invention, as set forth in theclaims that follow.

1. A two-piece fastening apparatus adapted for removableinterconnection, comprising: a locking portion comprising an upper end,a lower end and lateral edges extending therebetween; a receiving pocketpositioned within said locking portion and comprising at least oneoutwardly extending lip on a first end and an upper surface having arestricted diameter in at least one location; a button for selectiveinterconnection into said receiving pocket having: a) a first surfacedefined by an edge; b) a second surface defined by an edge separated bya predetermined distance from said first surface; c) a bevel extendingaround a portion of said edge of said first surface, wherein thethickness of said button is reduced; and d) a locking relief extendingaround a portion of said edge of said second surface generally oppositesaid bevel, wherein the thickness of said button is reduced; and whereinsaid receiving pocket is sized to receive and secure said button in afirst secured position wherein said button cannot be withdrawn from saidreceiving pocket until said bevel is positioned substantially adjacentto said outwardly extending lip as a result of a rotation of saidbutton.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said outwardly extendinglip further includes a locking cavity for engagement with said lockingrelief.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said button furthercomprises an attachment means for interconnection to an electronicdevice.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said at least one outwardlyextending lip is interconnected to a tab portion operably interconnectedto said locking portion, wherein displacement of said tab providessufficient spacing to allow said button to seat in said receivingpocket.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein when said button isselectively interconnected to said locking portion it is capable ofsubstantially free rotation.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinalignment of said bevel of said button with said outwardly extending liprequires rotation of said button in said receiving pocket.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 6, wherein said rotation of said button to facilitatedisengagement of said button from said outwardly extending lip isbetween about 150 and 210 degrees.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinsaid locking portion is interconnected to a clip for selectiveinterconnection to a belt, a pocket, or other article of clothing.
 9. Afastening apparatus, comprising: a locking means; a receiving pocketintegrally positioned within said locking means and comprising adeflectable tab with an engagement means positioned thereon adjacent toan upper surface of said receiving pocket; and a locking button operablysized to fit in said receiving pocket upon insertion in a firstdirection, wherein said locking button becomes secured by saidengagement means, said locking button further comprising: a) a bevelededge on an outer surface of said locking button; and b) a locking reliefon an inner surface of said locking button; and wherein said lockingbutton is selectively released from said receiving pocket by rotatingsaid locking button to an angle distinct from said first direction tofacilitate release from said receiving pocket.
 10. The apparatus ofclaim 9, wherein said engagement means further includes a locking cavityfor engagement with said locking relief.
 11. The apparatus of claim 9,wherein said engagement means comprises an upwardly extending lip. 12.The apparatus of claim 9, wherein said receiving pocket is shrouded witha restricted diameter portion to substantially prevent said lockingbutton from inadvertent disengagement from said pocket.
 13. A method forone-handed interconnection and removal of a multi-piece fasteningapparatus, comprising: providing a button with a first bevel and alocking relief; providing a locking pocket; providing an engagementmeans positioned within said locking pocket that retains said button insaid locking pocket when said button is oriented in a first position,and allows said button to be released from said engagement means whensaid button is rotated at least about 30 degrees from said firstposition; and wherein said button is selectively secured and removedfrom said locking pocket with one hand based on a rotational movement ofsaid button.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said engagementmeans further includes a locking cavity for engagement with said lockingrelief.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein said engagement meanscomprises a receiving pocket with an upwardly extending lip and areduced diameter cap portion sized to retain said button.
 16. The methodof claim 13, wherein said first bevel allows movement over said upwardlyextending lip when said first bevel and said upwardly extending lip arerotationally aligned.
 17. The method of claim 13, wherein saidengagement means further comprises a tab that allows said button to beslidingly positioned in said receiving pocket when said tab isdeflected.
 18. The method of claim 13, wherein said button and saidlocking pocket are interconnected to a protuberance for interconnectionto a strap, a belt, a rope, or a leash.
 19. The method of claim 13,wherein said button is interconnected to an electronic device.
 20. Themethod of claim 13, wherein said locking relief of said button has atleast a second bevel that is oriented at least about 30 degrees fromsaid first bevel.
 21. The method of claim 20, wherein in said firstposition said second bevel is retained within said locking relief.
 22. Atwo-piece fastening apparatus adapted for selective interconnection,comprising: a first locking portion having: a) an upper end, a lower endand lateral edges extending therebetween; b) a receiving pocketpositioned within said locking portion and comprising a lip extendingalong said lower end and along at least a portion of said lateral edges,said receiving pocket also including an opened surface interconnected tosaid lip to provide a slot; and c) a locking tab capable of resilientdefection about an axis substantially parallel to said lower end, saidlocking tab having a protrusion with a cavity; a second locking portionfor selective interconnection into said first locking portion having: a)a cylindrical button with a first surface and a second surface that isseparated a predetermined distance from said first surface; b) a bevelextending around a portion of an edge of said first surface, wherein thethickness of said cylindrical button is reduced; c) a locking reliefextending around a portion of an edge of said second surface, generallyopposite said bevel, wherein the thickness of said cylindrical button isreduced; and d) a stem interconnected to said second surface of saidcylindrical button; and wherein said receiving pocket is sized toreceive and secure said cylindrical button such that said locking reliefis positioned within said cavity of said protrusion when said firstlocking portion and said second locking portion are in a first lockedposition, and wherein said button is withdrawn from said receivingpocket when said first locking portion and said second portion arerotated relative to each other such that said bevel is positionedsubstantially adjacent to said protrusion of said locking tab.